Philip L. Scalise

Mr. Philip L. Scalise, age 85, formerly of Utica and currently of Lyons Falls, passed away on Friday, October 28, 2011 at the Charles T. Sitrin Healthcare Center with the support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on December 8, 1925, Philip was the son of the late Louis and Genevieve (Aiello) Scalise. Raised and educated locally, he was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. He continued his education at Ithaca College where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education in 1950 and a Master of Science degree in 1965. He also attended the prestigious National Music Camp at Interlochen, Michigan, and the Eastman School of Music. A veteran of World War II, Philip honorably served his country in the United States Army stationed stateside. At one time he was married to the former Gloria Alexander and to that relationship came the blessing of their daughter, Rhonda. He entered into a second union on July 14, 1961 when he wed the former Rose (Pape) Petteys with whom he shared 40 years until her passing on February 26, 2002; as a couple, they were very loving, compatible, and supportive of each other and family life. They shared a love of Fine Arts as well as a wide range of interests. Philip’s love of music and Fine Arts was imbued in all the ventures and highlights of his working life. He had mastered the bassoon and various woodwind instruments, and he worked as a substitute teacher of music instruction throughout Oneida County, and teacher of music at Mt. Markham Central School. He was the founder and director of the Scalise Music School located on Holland Avenue, and served as the Director of Cultural Affairs at Hanna Park in the City of Utica for a period of time. In 1985 Philip and Rose relocated to Williamsburg, Virginia to be closer to family and the many cultural venues of that area. Upon his wife’s passing, he returned to the Utica area where he has since resided. Philip was blessed with a gentle, kind, and affable nature, and gardening with his wife was one of many memorable times. Among his professional affiliations were the National Music Fraternity Phi Mu Alpha, local 51 Musicians Union, his tenure as Conductor for the Utica Junior Symphony, Conductor of the Red Band, and Instructor for the Oriskany Town Band. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Philip is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Rhonda and Timm Lathwell of Ithaca; his sons and daughter-in-law, David Petteys of Lyons Falls with whom he resided and by whom he was given much love and care, and Lawrence J. and Ira Petteys of Williamsburg, VA who shared much kindness and generosity of their hearts; his grandchildren, Jay Lathwell, and Angela Lathwell; Stacy Petteys, Bret Petteys; Michael Petteys, Nicole and Randy Nichols, and Melissa Petteys; and his great-grandchildren, Molly Ann Sharpe; and Chellis and Emily Nichols. In addition, he leaves his sisters and brothers-in-law, Theodora Milograno, Theresa and George Buccolo, and Anita and John Iannotta; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. He was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Valentine and Kathleen Scalise; and his brother-in-law, Ray Milograno. The family is grateful to the physicians and associates at the Syracuse Veterans Administration Hospital, and the staff of the Lewis County Adult Day Care Center as well as the Charles T. Sitrin Health Care Center Sequoia House, the personnel at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center Intensive Care Unit, and all the caregivers who were genuine and compassionate with their time and concern. Thanks also to Rev. Anthony P. LaFache for his spiritual guidance and prayers. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Red Band in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Philip’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be offered by Rev. Anthony P. LaFache. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Philip L. Scalise

December 8, 1925 - October 28, 2011